Monterey Bay

National Steinbeck Center

The National Steinbeck Center is located in John Steinbeck’s hometown of Salinas, California, a scenic 17-mile drive from Monterey into the heart of Steinbeck Country. The Center offers three distinct visitor experiences: literature and history, agriculture and art, as well special events and educational programs.
Discover Steinbeck’s world through interactive, multi-sensory exhibits for all ages, rare artifacts, and seven themed theaters showcasing East of Eden, Cannery Row, Of Mice and Men, The Grapes of Wrath and much more.
Rooted in the earth and the people of the Salinas Valley, Steinbeck achieved worldwide recognition for his keen observations and powerful descriptions of the human condition. He championed the forgotten and disenfranchised, while affirming the strength of the human spirit. His life was as rich and provocative as the Salinas Valley he immortalized in his writing. Steinbeck drew his inspiration from this land and became known throughout the world, receiving the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1962.
The Center is a wonderful attraction for school groups and adult tours and a unique venue for special events. Funds raised through admissions, memberships, programs, museum store sales, events and donations help support the Center, which is a 501(3) non-profit organization.